On Friday, 4th February, John Glen MP, helped to launch a new fundraising appeal to reopen the historic St Paul's Homes which has been derelict for over 10 years. The appeal aims to raise £300,000 towards the £900,000 project costs to enable St Paul's Homes to be restored to their former glory and provide accommodation for 12 of Salisbury's most vulnerable people.

Salisbury Trust for the Homeless and BCHA, a specialist housing and social care support provider, are working together to raise the funds and manage the restoration project. BCHA has a history of working on similar projects and will be responsible for the restoration work, while Salisbury Trust for the Homeless will manage the property once occupied. The restored Homes will provide affordable high quality permanent accommodation for 12 people in Salisbury who have previously been homeless.

Over 60 people from a wide variety of organisations attended the launch to hear supporting speeches from John Glen and Councillor John Abbott, Deputy Mayor of Salisbury. Graham Exon, Chair of BCHA, spoke of the need for the public to understand and sympathise with homeless people. Guests were moved by two residents from Salisbury Trust for the Homeless who spoke eloquently about their personal difficulties, the help they have received and how important this property would be to them.

Phyllis Babb, Chair of the St Paul's fundraising committee said, "We are looking for individual donations and also for local organisations, clubs, churches, schools and any other groups to carry out an event to raise money on behalf of the project. This is a way many Salisbury people can become personally involved in helping St Paul's Homes to come back to life and once more serve the community as a home for disadvantaged people."
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John Glen MP stated "I applaud this initiative for the people of Salisbury."

To find out more, or to donate visit the St Paul's Homes website or call 01722 504017.